Agriculture Minister emphasizes collective responsibility for food security in Nigeria

Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, the Minister of State for Agriculture, highlighted that ensuring food security is a shared responsibility among all Nigerians. During an interview with the Senate Press Corps in Abuja on Monday, he encouraged citizens to engage in planting, pointing out that 50 out of 80 million hectares of arable land remain unused.

Abdullahi emphasized the significance of food security within the 8-point agenda of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, considering its multifaceted benefits. According to him, addressing food security contributes to the fight against corruption, as some resort to corrupt practices due to hunger and poverty.

He stressed the importance of securing the stomachs of Nigerians, as it reduces the likelihood of citizens turning to corruption or criminal activities. The minister urged citizens to participate in the government’s policy by cultivating something wherever they reside. Additionally, he expressed the government’s commitment to cultivating a substantial portion of the uncultivated arable land in the country to enhance food security. Currently, only 34 million hectares out of 70-80 million hectares of arable land are under cultivation in Nigeria.